THE BRIGHT LIGHT GALA MAKES ITS DEBUT 

Brightpoint enters a new era with a sparkling evening linking generations of supporters doing all they can for families and children

It’s a family legacy for Hinsdale’s Claudine Schramko as she chairs the Bright Light Gala on Friday, March 13, when guests will gather at Butterfield Country Club to enjoy an elegant evening of cocktails, dinner and dancing to a live band in support of Brightpoint, formerly Children’s Home & Aid.

“I always knew about Children’s Home & Aid because my mother was so involved,” Schramko said. “She was a big believer in the idea that, when someone asks you to help, and you’re able to do so, you say yes. When I got married and moved back to Hinsdale, I joined, and after taking a little bit of a break, I jumped back in and picked right back up where I left off.” Claudine stepped into the role of Brightpoint gala chair this year and is bringing her daughters along on the meaningful adventure of philanthropy and service.

The West Suburban Auxiliary welcomes all who support the vision of creating brighter futures for children, which is why the name recently changed from Hinsdale to West Suburban. “We wanted to be more deliberately inclusive. Everyone was always welcome, but with just one town only the name, there was uncertainty about that. The change reflects the desire to be more purposeful,” Claudine says.

This fundraiser is also new. For 70 years, the Auxiliary hosted a must-attend Derby Day party to raise money for their programs and centers. While that’s an awfully strong run for a beloved fundraiser, in recent years the date had grown crowded with other Derby Day parties. At the urging of Brightpoint, the West Suburban Auxiliary brainstormed a fresh and exciting event, the Bright Light Gala.

Claudine says, “I am in love with our theme and so excited about the timing. There was a great deal of competition on Derby Day and March is the perfect in-between time. People have rested from the whirl of the holiday season and aren’t yet in the rush of Spring Break, Mother’s Day, and graduations.”

The initial reaction from the Brightpoint community has been enthusiastic. “I’m so pleased at the positive feedback we’ve received,” Claudine says.

Claudine, who along with her husband Chris, has lived in Hinsdale for more than 30 years, is an avid supporter of many meaningful groups. After a well-earned break to mourn the passing of her mother, Claudine is chairing the Bright Light Gala, chairing the Hat Luncheon for The Service Club of Chicago, and hosting the Breakfast at Tiffany’s table at Tablescapes. Most of all, she is excited that her girls are carrying on the family tradition of service.

“Hinsdale has been our home for over 30 years. A place where we raised our three daughters and learned the meaning of community. Giving back to those in need and supporting the local shops and businesses have long been a part of our family life. My parents instilled in me that giving back and helping those in need is both a responsibility and privilege. This has shaped my life, and I now see it in my daughters,” she says, sharing that her daughters Emma O’Donnell and Gretchen Schramko are both a part of Brightpoint and Christine will join next year.

Speaking with Claudine, her enthusiasm and renewed dedication to service are palpable and it’s easy to feel the spirit of sparkle she is infusing into every moment of the Bright Light Gala.

She encourages all who enjoy a good time to attend, saying, “Your physical support strengthens our mission. While donations are wonderful and received by the organization gratefully, your presence is even more valuable to us. Please come and join in the fun and enjoy the good food and dancing as well as hear the success stories of those Brightpoint serves. Be a part of the evening. Feel the connection and be a part of our community.” Claudine chose Butterfield because it is convenient and refined. “Plus, I want all of the guests to feel well taken care of, and that’s how everyone leaves Butterfield,” she says.

Whether you were a regular attendee of Derby Day or not, adding this fresh event to your calendar makes sense. Brightpoint has a 100-year history of success and continues to be a valuable resource for children and families across Illinois, not just in the Chicago area.

Claudine says, “If we can change one life, we’ve made a big difference. I used to wonder if I, as one person could really make a difference. Now I understand that by changing one life you’ve made a difference in the world.”

The Bright Light Gala is Friday March 13, 2026, from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. at Butterfield Country Club in Oak Brook. Buy tickets or donate at brightpoint.org.